* Developed a preliminary set of course materials
* Tested and modified course in two separate 100+ student trials
* Full implimentation to begin Fall 1996 with 1200+ students per year
* It is imperative to make all major changes at once, in oder to get students to change old habits
* How to structure the two and one-half hour discussion labs to ensure students are actively involved in their own learning
* How to assess students in a way that encourages understanding and connections rather than pigeon holeing of facts and algorithims
* TA training is crucial due to changed role of TA
* Majority of TAs are capable of learning their new role as facilitators of learning
* Design of discussion lab activities is critically important, since they form the basis for most learning
* Students adapt to new course structure quickly
* Many students do change their learning approaches and habits
* Student achievement is comparable to those completing the traditional course, with some indications of improvement in their grasp of the physical concepts
* Students do not need a 1200 page text book as primary learning resource
* Overall student response to the course is positive
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page created: 14-Aug-96